Striving for perfection at work or school often masks feelings of inadequacy, as success becomes a defense.
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Seeking constant approval—online or in person—can stem from internal doubts, substituting self-belief with external praise.
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Overly critical self-standards lead to relentless perfectionism, which often hides a fragile sense of self-worth.
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Excessive focus on material goods or luxury brands can be an attempt to compensate for inner feelings of inadequacy.
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Dramatic actions or constant self-promotion may serve as a way to cover up deep-rooted insecurities.
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Constantly curating an idealized online persona can be a coping mechanism to feel worthy and admired.
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Overcommitting to others' needs often masks self-doubt, leading to a loss of personal identity in the process.
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Engaging in behaviors that undermine success can be an unconscious way to validate one’s negative self-view.
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